Great outdoors provides a great opportunity

It seems like an obvious idea for a much-needed service in Hong Kong. But it took a training seminar last September to turn the concept of a company specialising in the provision of emergency first-aid services for outdoor-adventure enthusiasts into reality.

'The idea was first raised in casual conversation,' says Adventure Unlimited director Steve Coward. 'The four directors were all attending a three-part course here in Hong Kong designed by Wilderness Alert Canada which qualified us in provision of first-aid, advanced first-aid and advanced medicine as it relates to outdoor adventure activities.'

Mr Coward said no similar training had been offered before in Hong Kong, and recent outdoor and sporting tragedies in the city had highlighted the need to provide such a service.

Over 100 hours, the Canadian trainer instructed them on first-aid, outdoor application of medications such adrenalin and use of defibrillators.

'Adventure Unlimited is able to guarantee provision of all of these services to a variety of organisations, ranging from outdoor adventure organisers to schools and entertainment venues,' Mr Coward said.

The company also encourages these groups to buy defibrillators and would like to also see them in public places such as airports and train stations. US airports are already equipped with defibrillators and trained staff.